Milwaukee, WI — On March 22, 2015, I attended the Miss Milwaukee Pageant held at the Marian Center for Non-Profits in St. Francis, WI. Among the ever swirling lights on stage, a pageant with many great deserving young women took place.

Linwood, NJ – On Saturday, April 18, Miss America 2015 Kira Kazantsev along with Miss America state titleholders from across the country will be called upon to participate in “Miss America Serves” – a national day of volunteer service presented by Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. This combined effort will raise funds for member hospitals while addressing the unique needs of communities across the nation.

Cornelia is a junior ranking first in her class at Le Grand High School. She is a two year All-State Speech performer in ensemble acting and radio broadcasting. Cornelia is also involved in Student Council, Choir, Band and Theatre. Committed to service, Cornelia has been volunteering in her school and community for over seven years. Most recently, she founded SMILE Encouragement and Volunteer Group at her school and has been a guest speaker for numerous “Beauty” at school events which encourage young girls to embrace and celebrate true beauty. Cornelia wishes to follow in the footsteps of her parents, Dr. Ken and Patty Hayes, and pursue a career in education.

Throughout the event the candidates competed in six distinct categories of judging: Scholastic Achievement, Service to School and Community, Personal Development, Personality Poise and Projection in evening wear, a General Awareness Test and Interview. The outgoing Miss Teen of America, Kiera Kinnaird, crowned her successor at the conclusion of the event.

Final Results:

1st Runner-Up: Miss Teen of Minnesota, Ashley Becker will assume the duties if for some reason the winner cannot fulfill her responsibilities.

2nd Runner-Up: Miss Teen of South Dakota, Shelby Kluver.

Spirit Award: Miss Teen of Missouri, Natasha Bailey

About the Miss Teen of America Organization:

The Miss Teen of America Pageant was founded in 1983 by Mr. Warren Alexander, a former educator and pageant director, and designed to help young women reach their full potential. The scholastically based pageant recognizes young women ages 13-18 for their outstanding personal achievements, leadership abilities, and artistic, creative or athletic talents.